Pandora, the global jewellery company, opened its new shop at the Westwood Cross shopping centre in Broadstairs, Kent, on 3 November. The launch brought in huge numbers of shoppers.
On opening day, many people lined up well before the doors even opened, all keen to be the first inside. This big turnout proves the brand is still very popular and is an important draw for the local shopping centre. Customers showed up early in the morning, which highlighted how much excitement there was for the store to finally open.
The shop is in a very noticeable, large spot that was recently used by the shoe retailer Clarks. This move is a key part of the centre’s plan to fill its big units with well-known companies, making the location more appealing.
Shoppers Rush for a Special Deal
The excitement was immediate. Long lines of people waited patiently across the main walkways. This heavy crowd was strongly encouraged by a special deal offered only on opening day.
Pandora had announced a great incentive: the first 50 customers to enter the shop would get a £30 gift card to spend right away.
This popular offer quickly led to high demand. Staff had to manage the long queue well before the centre officially opened. They then worked quickly to handle the stream of customers looking at the brand’s charms, rings, and necklaces, especially the popular bracelet kits. The large crowd shows clearly that people in Thanet wanted a dedicated Pandora shop nearby.
Securing a Central Spot
Getting the unit where Clarks used to be is a significant success for the centre’s owners. The space is one of the largest available outside of the main department stores. After Clarks closed, the unit left a noticeable gap at the centre. Filling it with a global brand like Pandora helps make the entire centre more stable and adds variety to the types of shops available.
The unit is placed right at a busy intersection, making it very easy to see. It sits next to the newly updated Holland & Barrett health shop, meaning a constant flow of shoppers walks past the jewellery store’s large windows. Retail experts say this was a very smart decision, as it uses high-traffic spots to create a powerful area for luxury shopping.
Centre Manager Praises Local Buzz
Fran Donovan, the Centre Director at Westwood Cross, spoke about how important the new store is and how excited the local community was.
“Pandora’s arrival is a fantastic addition to Westwood Cross and one we know our guests have been eagerly anticipating,” Ms Donovan said. She mentioned that the centre had received many questions from customers about the store’s arrival in the months before the opening.
She also added that the new shop “adds even more choice for shoppers looking for something special this Christmas, and it’s wonderful to see the centre continue to grow with such a strong mix of new and exciting brands.”
The timing is very important. It happens just before the highly profitable Christmas period. Jewellery and accessories are always top sellers during the holiday season. This November opening is crucial for both Pandora’s sales goals and the shopping centre’s overall results for the end of the year.
The store’s look follows Pandora’s latest global design. It offers a modern, clean environment with bright lights and dedicated areas for customer help, which matches the brand’s high status in the market.
Store Part of a Bigger Upgrade
The opening of Pandora is not just a single success; it is part of a much bigger effort to upgrade the entire Westwood Cross site. The centre is currently attracting new companies and investment, which makes it a top place to shop for people across East Kent.
Economic Boost and New Neighbouring Shops
This push to bring in major retailers helps make the centre financially stable. It is also expected to create many local jobs in the shopping and restaurant industries. These new jobs are a great boost for the local economy in Thanet, especially since they come right before the busy holiday season.
Pandora’s launch is quickly followed by another global brand: Rituals. The cosmetics and homeware retailer plans to open its new shop right next door on 5 November. By grouping these desirable, high-quality shops close together, the centre creates a strong area for customers looking for gifts and luxury items.
The centre also recently added the American seafood restaurant Captain D’s, which chose Westwood Cross for its first location in the UK. That restaurant’s launch also brought out lots of local interest and long queues. This focus on bringing in big names like Pandora, along with unique new businesses, shows a very smart and active management plan.
